More Than a Journey: How the UK Gave Us Family, Strength, and New Dreams - A Retrospective by Nirmala Bhandari
Some trips change your location. Others change your life. Our UK journey did both.
In 2025, through the generosity of Step Three Construction (who raised more than £30,000), Nirmala Bhandari and her partner Krishna Chhetri of the Nirmala Foundation visited the UK (on two occassions) for Nirmala to have a new Ottobock prosthetic fitted (thanks to Dorset Orthopaedic) and to attend multiple events across the UK to promote their foundation. Nirmala recently spoke to us about her experiences of the UK, and how these trips will allow her to attempt to reach Everest Base Camp in 2026 and represent a catalyst for change for the Nirmala Foundation.
Where the Journey Began
Our journey began on June 22, 2025, when my partner Krish and I left Kathmandu, travelling through Dubai and onward to Heathrow. It was a long and tiring journey, filled with anticipation, reflection, and quiet excitement. For Krish, this was especially meaningful—it was his first time leaving Nepal and experiencing another country.
When we arrived at Heathrow, we were welcomed by David Rivers (Baje) and Ally Rivers (Baju). After hours of travel, seeing their warm smiles instantly lifted our spirits. Their embrace, kindness, and genuine care made us feel safe and deeply valued. In that moment, the distance from home felt smaller.
After a two-hour drive, we arrived in Burwash late that evening. Stepping into their home felt surprisingly natural. Although we were thousands of miles away from Nepal, there was an undeniable sense of belonging. That quiet first night gently set the tone for everything that followed — this was not just a visit, it was the beginning of something special.
Family Beyond Blood
From the very beginning, the UK felt like a beautiful blend of difference and familiarity. The culture was new, yet everywhere we went there were echoes of home — in conversations, in shared meals, and in the warmth of people who opened their doors to us.
We stayed the longest with David and Ally and their family, and every day was filled with meaningful discussions about life, purpose, future plans, and how we could grow the work of the Nirmala Foundation beyond borders. We shared stories we had never spoken aloud before and listened deeply to others. It did not take long for acquaintances to become family.
This journey reminded us of a powerful truth: family is not defined by blood, but by bond. The encouragement and belief we received strengthened us in ways we did not expect.
Long Roads, Big Hearts, and Endless Care
A significant part of our time in the UK involved travelling to my ortho clinic in Ringwood, Dorset. The drives were long, often exhausting, but they were filled with laughter, conversation, and constant support.
Helen Didi and Paul Dai, Andrew and Sophie, Charlie Dai, Dalma, David and Ally — and many others — gave their time, energy, and care without hesitation. Each journey to the clinic represented hope, healing, and progress.
One moment that still makes us smile happened when I arrived at the clinic only to realise I had forgotten my new prosthetic leg at home. It was both embarrassing and amusing. Without judgment, Dalma immediately drove all the way back to retrieve it. That simple act reflected the spirit of this entire journey: unconditional support.
We are also deeply thankful to Andrew Cardel, who generously opened his home in the New Forest during many of our Dorset visits. His hospitality made demanding clinic appointments far smoother and less stressful.
Healing, Milestones, and New Confidence
This trip marked an important milestone in my prosthetic journey. After months of adapting to my prosthesis, I challenged myself to complete a couple of hikes while in the UK. They were physically demanding and emotionally powerful. Every step was a reminder of how far I have come — from injury and uncertainty to strength and renewed confidence.
I am incredibly grateful to Charlie Dai and everyone who helped raise funds for my prosthetic leg. This support went far beyond replacing a limb. It restored independence, possibility, and belief — not just for me, but for many Nepali girls who see their own dreams reflected in this journey.
I am also sincerely thankful to the Ottobock Centre and Shaun for their professional care, expertise, and patience. Looking ahead, I am excited about transitioning into a new socket this summer and continuing to build strength. A dream that once felt distant now feels achievable — reaching Everest Base Camp next year.
Celebration, Community, and Shared Purpose
Beyond appointments and travel, our visit was filled with meaningful community moments. We shared meals at the Royal Oak Restaurant and spent valuable time with the Step Three team — Joe, Sara, Sarah Leigh, and Ashley — whose encouragement and belief in our mission strengthened our confidence.
One particularly memorable evening took place at the Himalayan Restaurant in Leamington Spa, where more than 45 people gathered to support us. Friends, new faces, and supporters came together not just to dine, but to connect, listen, and share ideas. It was an evening of unity and shared purpose.
We were also grateful for the opportunity to sell our Nepali products at Frampton Cotterell Church (Zion United Church), thanks to Helen Didi and Paul Dai. In Manchester, Hazel organised a beautiful fundraising dinner at Jai Kathmandu. That evening felt like more than an event — it felt like a community standing together.
From travelling on National Express buses to navigating London’s busy streets in black cabs, from trying new foods to sharing laughter over familiar dishes, every experience added richness to our journey. A special thank you to Charlie Rivers’ band members for their celebrations and fundraising efforts, and to Sarah from Step Three Construction for her ongoing belief in our work.
These moments were not simply gatherings. They were reminders that when people come together with shared values, community becomes strength.
Growing Together: Personally and Professionally
While this year has brought personal healing, it has also brought professional growth. Thanks to the generosity of Step Three Construction, we now have a new accessible office space to continue the work of the Nirmala Foundation. This space represents more than walls and desks — it represents belief, partnership, and momentum.
The Nirmala Foundation was built on the idea that no one should be left behind. Seeing that vision supported internationally has been humbling and empowering.
A Year to Remember
The combination of personal milestones, professional progress, and unwavering support from friends and family in the UK has made 2025 the most remarkable year of our lives so far.
Krish experienced his first international journey. I reached new heights in my prosthetic recovery. Together, we strengthened our mission, expanded our community, and deepened lifelong relationships.
We remain committed to our belief:
“Let No One Sit on the Sideline.”
This journey has reminded us that with encouragement, love, and determination, boundaries are meant to be crossed and dreams are meant to be pursued.
For us, 2025 has not simply been a good year.
It has been transformational.
